Statement in response to recent case of child sexual and spiritual abuse

We are shocked and appalled to hear of the devastating case of child sexual and spiritual abuse that has recently come to light in the United States. Our thoughts are with the victim at this time.

Spiritual abuse occurs when those in a position of relative power weaponise religious edicts or practices to harm vulnerable people. Spiritual abuse is not specific to a particular community of faith, and children face the greatest risk of harm.

As an independent charity that supports all people who have experienced abuse and trauma within faith, we call for religious organisations to implement appropriate measures and procedures to ensure that transparency, accountability and safeguarding are upheld to the highest standard. We would also like to extend our solidarity to all victims and survivors of abuses within faith settings. Support and advice are available.

At Replenished Life, we strive to ensure that every person who has experienced abuse and trauma within faith is heard and understood, that they receive quality support from organisations that are well equipped to provide it and that there is an awareness of what healthy faith looks like. Although we are not able to work with children and young people, our resources are for adults of all faiths and none. For more information please see our Support Services page.